Motorcycle crashes leave riders vulnerable to severe injuries or even death because they lack the protection of other vehicles. By understanding which factors lead to more motorcycle crashes than the others, riders can stay alert to potential dangers and take steps to minimize their risk. With that in mind, let’s answer the question, “How do many motorcycle crashes happen?”
Speeding and Reckless Riding
Excessive speed ranks as one of the top causes of motorcycle accidents. Riders who travel above the posted speed limit or too fast for road conditions have less time to react to obstacles, curves, or other vehicles. Reckless riding behaviors, such as weaving through traffic or performing stunts, also increase the likelihood of losing control and crashing.
Alcohol and Drug Impairment
Impaired riding due to alcohol or drug use significantly increases the risk of motorcycle crashes. In fact, 28% of motorcyclists involved in fatal accidents in one recent year were found to be intoxicated by alcohol at the time. Drugs and alcohol slow reaction times, impair judgment, and reduce coordination, making it difficult for riders to operate their motorcycles safely. Even small amounts of alcohol can have a significant impact on a rider’s ability to control their vehicle.
Inexperience and Lack of Training
New riders or those who lack proper training are more likely to be involved in motorcycle crashes. Inexperienced riders may need help with controlling their motorcycle, especially in challenging situations like heavy traffic or poor weather conditions. They may also have difficulty recognizing and responding to potential hazards on the road.
Distracted Riding
Riding a motorcycle safely takes coordination, focus, and attention. Anything that takes a rider’s attention away from the road reduces their ability to react quickly to changing traffic conditions or obstacles.
Lack of Visibility and Awareness from Other Motorists
Many motorcycle crashes occur because other motorists fail to see or yield to motorcycles around them. Due to their smaller size, motorcycles are harder to spot in traffic, especially when other drivers are distracted or not actively looking for them. Crashes can occur when drivers change lanes without checking their blind spots, pull out in front of motorcycles at intersections, or fail to give riders enough space on the road.
Applying What You’ve Learned
Motorcycle crashes can have devastating consequences for riders and their loved ones. By understanding “how do many motorcycle crashes happen?”, you can take proactive steps to minimize your risk and stay safe on the road. This includes obeying speed limits, avoiding impaired riding, seeking proper training, staying focused and alert, and making yourself visible to other motorists. By prioritizing safety and awareness, you can enjoy the freedom and excitement of motorcycling while significantly reducing your chances of being involved in a crash.
Get the Compensation You Deserve and Get Back on the Road!
Regardless of how the accident happened, a motorcyclist injured in a crash has legal rights. The Law Tigers local motorcycle accident lawyers fight on behalf of injured riders to get the compensation they deserve. For more than 20 years riders have trusted the Law Tigers to help with their case. Visit lawtigers.com or call 1-888-863-7216, 24/7 for a free case evaluation.
